Chapter 14 - The Closure
The journalist's story was published.
It was widely read.
People were moved by Claire's story.
Her foundation gained national attention.
Money poured in.
She was able to help more families.
---
One day, she visited Evan in prison.
He sat across from her in the visiting room.
"Claire," he said.
"Evan."
"I'm sorry."
"I know."
"Claire, I never meant to hurt you. I didn't know what they were planning. I didn't know they were going to lock you in that bathroom."
"Evan, you were there. You didn't stop them."
"I was scared. I didn't know what to do."
"You could have done something. You could have saved me. You could have saved our daughter."
"I know. And I will regret that for the rest of my life."
Claire shook her head.
"I didn't come here for an apology. I came here for closure."
"Closure?"
"Yes. I need to let go of the anger. I need to move on."
"And I need your forgiveness."
"I can't give you that. Not yet. Maybe not ever."
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"But I can tell you this. I will never let anyone hurt me again. Not you. Not anyone."
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